Preedee TeoPope Francis will make a historic visit to Singapore from 11 Sep to 13 Sep 2024, marking the second Papal visit since Pope John Paul II in 1986. His visit includes a highly anticipated Papal Mass at the National Stadium on 12 Sep, which is expected to draw large crowds and cause heavy traffic in the surrounding area, with road closures already announced.
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Heavy road congestions are expected
Image credit: Singapore Sports Hub | Official Facebook
Singapore Sports Hub has issued a warning about heavy road traffic around the area during the Papal Mass. Visitors relying on private hire vehicles or personal transport are encouraged to arrive as early as they can to avoid anticipated road congestion.
The only entry point for vehicles will be Car Park D, where mandatory police security checks will take place. Parking spaces are expected to be limited.
To ease congestion, the attendees are encouraged to use public transportation, including buses and the MRT in making their way to the National Stadium.
Re-entry restrictions and on-site amenities available
Left your neck air conditioner back home and need to head out for a moment? Unfortunately, re-entry into the National Stadium is not allowed once the Papal Mass has started.
Do be assured that the venue will offer a range of amenities, including water dispensers and restrooms. Food and beverages will be available at stands inside the stadium. Keep a look out for volunteers in yellow and white striped T-shirts if you need help navigating your way around the stadium.
For smoother entry, attendees are advised to only bring the essentials as there will be no deposit services available to keep their belongings.
Livestream for those unable to attend
For those unable to attend in person, a full livestream of the Papal Mass will be available on the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore official YouTube page.
The following venues at the Singapore Sports Hub will be closed due to the event:
- From 11 Sep to 12 Sep, the 100PLUS Promenade will close from 10.30pm onwards.
- Splash-N-Surf, the Skate Park, and the Hard Courts will also be closed on 12 Sep.
A full list of closures and timings can be accessed via the Singapore Sports Hub’s official website.
Historic visit: 38 years in the making
Pope Francis’ visit is the first Papal trip to Singapore in 38 years, with the previous one being by Pope St John Paul II on 20 Nov 1986. With the Pontiff’s visit, Cardinal William Goh, Archbishop of Singapore, shared his hope that this visit would “bring renewed fervour to all Catholics in Singapore, uniting them in faith and mission, especially in these most challenging of times.”
Also read: Top Destinations for a Memorable Short Trip From Singapore
As Pope Francis completes the final leg of his Asia-Pacific tour in Singapore, we hope everyone who is attending the event will have a memorable experience of this historic visit. Peace be with you all!
Featured image credit: Vatican News | Facebook
Facebook featured image credit: (L-R) Singapore Sports Hub | Facebook; Vatican News | Facebook
